Federal Budget and First Nations Statistics

Finding reliable statistics for First Nation communities in Canada can be a challenge at the best of times. And now the recent Federal budget is doing away with two First Nations statistical agencies – the First Nations Statistical Institute (FNSI) and the National Aboriginal Health Organization (NAHO). Another organization however – the First Nations Information Governance Centre (FNIGC) – says it has always been and can continue to be a central player, providing “the best, most reliable and comprehensive data about First Nations anywhere in Canada”. Check out the First Nations Information Governance Centre website here. Interesting highlights include plans to carry out a First Nations Regional Education and Employment Survey (REES) of First Nations living on-reserve and in northern First Nation communities, in partnership with AANDC. First order results are expected in 2014, with full distribution in 2015/ 2016.